Racism, stereotyping, lack of trust, misunderstanding -- those are issues everyone can work on. And Tuesday, students at UNO's community engagement center discussed ways our community can be more inclusive and respectful.

The students came from eight area high schools, breaking up into small groups to discuss how to improve the community.

The grand jury's decision not to indict the officer who shot and killed Michael Brown was at the forefront of the discussion.

"I wouldn't say that every time that happens there should always be riots, but sometimes the world needs to know people care about the people that are killed," said Brandon Lai, senior at Omaha Central.

Douglas County Treasurer John Ewing shared his insight from two decades as an Omaha police officer.

"We need to do everything we can to build relationships with the Omaha Police Department and the citizens of this community so it doesn't happen here," Ewing said.

While not everyone agreed with the grand jury's decision, students and adults say engagement is key.

"We all should listen to each other with the intent of being changed by what we hear," said Susan Wallis, education coordinator for the Anti-Defamation League.

Organizers said it's more important than ever for students to have a place to process and discuss what's happening there and how it affects everyone else nationwide.